Challenges in the Life of Eric Swalwell in a Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Eric Swalwell's life and career.

Eric Swalwell is an American lawyer and Democratic politician currently serving as the U.S. Representative for California's 14th congressional district since 2023. He previously represented the 15th district from 2013 to 2023. His district encompasses most of eastern Alameda County and a portion of central Contra Costa County in California.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

2001: End of Soccer Scholarship

In 2001, Eric Swalwell's soccer scholarship ended after he broke both of his thumbs.

January 2017: Reintroduction of Protecting Our Democracy Act

In January 2017, Eric Swalwell and Representative Elijah Cummings reintroduced the Protecting Our Democracy Act, though it failed to gain bipartisan support.

2018: Seizure of Personal Data

In 2018, the U.S. Department of Justice under the Trump administration seized Eric Swalwell's personal data.

July 8, 2019: Swalwell Withdraws from Presidential Race

On July 8, 2019, Eric Swalwell withdrew from the presidential race due to low polling averages and the risk of not qualifying for the second set of debates.

December 2020: Axios Story on Fang Fang

In December 2020, an Axios story reported that Fang Fang had sexual relations with two Midwestern mayors but not Swalwell, though allegations persisted about him being a national security threat. Swalwell received death and rape threats against him and his family following the report.

March 2021: Motion to Remove Swalwell from House Intelligence Committee

In March 2021, House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy moved to remove Swalwell from his seat on the House Intelligence Committee, but the motion was tabled on a party-line vote.

April 2021: House Ethics Committee Opens Investigation into Swalwell

In April 2021, the House Ethics Committee opened an investigation into Swalwell.

January 2023: Expulsion from House Intelligence Committee

In January 2023, Speaker Kevin McCarthy expelled Eric Swalwell and Adam Schiff from the House Intelligence Committee.

January 2023: McCarthy Removes Swalwell from Intelligence Committee

In January 2023, after McCarthy became Speaker, he removed Swalwell from the Intelligence committee, stating he wouldn't have Swalwell on any committee if he had the FBI briefing. Swalwell called McCarthy's action "purely vengeance".